From the frenzied clashes in “League of Legends” to the strategic battles in “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive,” esports have taken the world by storm. They’ve transformed the way we perceive competitive gaming, making it a mainstream spectacle that’s as thrilling as traditional sports.
In this article, I’ll dive into the different types of esports, shedding light on the diverse genres that make up this exhilarating world. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just dipping your toes into the esports arena, there’s a game out there that’s sure to captivate your interest.
So, buckle up as we embark on this electrifying journey through the world of esports, a realm where skill, strategy, and speed merge to create a spectacle unlike any other.
Types of Esports
Definition and Overview of Esports
Esports, short for electronic sports, resemble traditional sports in their competitive nature but pivot around video games. Think of it as competitive video gaming at a professional level. Matched gamers, either as individuals or as teams, vie against one another in certain video games, embodying the same spirit of competitiveness as in traditional sports.
Online games that fall under the esports ambit are as various as they’re captivating, spanning over genres from Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO, example: World of Warcraft) to Real-Time Strategy (RTS, example: StarCraft II), to the globally acclaimed Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA, examples: Dota 2 or League of Legends), among others.
As for the scope, esports aren’t just games someone plays in their bedroom. Competitions often take place in arenas packed with fans, with millions more watching online. In 2020, the esports viewership worldwide clocked a staggering 495 million, as per the data by Newzoo, reflecting this growing trend.
The Evolution of Esports
Timeline of Esports Development
The explosive popularity of esports didn’t occur overnight. The inception of esports traces back to the early 1970s. Lets delve into a brief timeline:
- 1970s-1980s: The Stanford University hosted the first recorded video game tournament, ‘Intergalactic Spacewar Olympics,’ in 1972, establishing the bedrock of the esports industry. By the ’80s, video game contests became more prevalent, with events like the ‘Space Invaders Championship’ garnering nationwide attention.
- 1990s-2000s: The rise of internet connectivity and LAN events cultivated a competitive environment leading to the birth of iconic esports titles like ‘Counter-Strike’ and ‘Starcraft’. The establishment of organizations like Major League Gaming in 2002 signified esports’ transition into a professional activity.
- 2010s-Present: An explosion of interest catapulted esports into mainstream culture. High-profile investments and a surge in global viewership, with a record 495 million viewers in 2020, underscores the industry’s growth.
Impact of Digital Advancements on Esports
Digital advancements have played an instrumental role in shaping esports. Online streaming platforms like Twitch have democratised access to esports, making it possible for anyone, anywhere, to tune into competitions. Furthermore, advancements in graphics and game design have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible, creating immersive, engaging experiences for players and audiences alike. Augmented and virtual reality technologies are set to redefine the esports landscape, ushering in a new era of competitive gaming. Lastly, the advent of mobile gaming has expanded esports’ reach, opening avenues for new genres and audiences.
Major Types of Esports
Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
MOBAs entail a fusion of role-playing and strategy while incorporating aspects of action games. Fundamentally, the player’s objective in games like ‘League of Legends’ and ‘DOTA 2’ is to team up with other players, seize control of the rival’s base, and defeat enemy characters, often referred to as ‘heroes’. These games demand a bespoke blend of personal skill, strategic thinking, and team synergy, readily making them one of the most popular and watched types of esports globally.
First-Person Shooter (FPS)
FPS games manifest a unique perspective by placing the player directly in the shoes of the game character, seeing the world through their eyes. FPS esports like ‘Counter-Strike: Global Offensive’ and ‘Overwatch’ mandate players to showcase fast reflexes, spatial awareness, and tactical proficiency, while they navigate their virtual environs, neutralizing enemies. The appeal of FPS esports derives from their fast-paced, high-octane gameplay, and the vivid spectator experience they provide.